Osteopenia/Osteoporosis and Vitamine D Levels in Our Group of Male HIV Positive Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Studies are still conducted on the presence and prevalence of osteopenia/osteoporosis among HIV positive individuals and associated factors. Data on this subject is scarce in developing countries. Materials and Methods: Medical records of 135 HIV positive individuals followed at our clinic between 2010-2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Male individuals aged between 18-65 years without any comorbid conditionS and with normal parathormone (PTH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), testosterone, calcium and phosphorus levels not receiving vitamin D were included. CD4 counts, smoking and alcohol consumption habits, antiretroviral treatment (ART) status, body mass index (BMI), 25 (OH) vitamin D levels and T-scores of the individuals at the time of DEXA (Dual Energy X-Ray absorptiometry) examination were retrieved from the records. Individuals receiving and not receiving ART were compared in terms of presence of osteopenia/osteoporosis. Results: Mean age was 35 years (range, 18-65). Mean CD4 count was 431 cells/mu l and individuals with CD4 count < 200 constituted 12.8% of the group (17/132). Majority had a normal BMI between 18.5-24.9 (81/135, 60%) kg/m(2) 71.2% of patients had vitamin D deficiency. Osteoporosis and osteopenia were present in 16.3% (22/135) and 54.8% (74/134), respectively. Patients receiving and not receiving ART did not differ with regard to the presence of osteopenia or osteoporosis (p=0.3 and p=0.2 respectively). Conclusion: As it is the case for overall population, new studies examining vitamin D deficiency prevalence and osteopenia/osteoporosis rates among HIV positive individuals are warranted.